The Algebra Concept Inventory: Creation and Validation With Students Across a Range of Math Courses in College
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Even though algebraic conceptual understanding is recognized as a critical skill, existing larger- scale validated algebra assessments consist mostly of computational tasks, or only assess a very narrow range of conceptions in a smaller focused domain. Further, few instruments have been validated for use with college students. In this paper, we describe the creation and validation of an algebra concept inventory for college students. We describe how items were administered, revised, and tested for validity and reliability. Results suggest that algebraic conceptual understanding is a measurable construct, and that the instrument has reasonable validity and reliability. Revision and validation is ongoing; however, lessons learned thus far provide information about what conceptual understanding in algebra might look like and how it might be assessed.